District 49 floats idea of opening military academy

If Falcon School District 49 officials and school board members have their way, the district on the eastern edge of Colorado Springs might someday be home to a military academy.

Kim McClelland, iConnect Innovation Leader, along with board Vice President Christopher Wright and board attorney Brad Miller visited New Mexico Military Institute in early May.

The college preparatory high school and junior college is in Roswell, N.M.

On Wednesday, board members listened to a brief report on the visit and asked some questions at a special board meeting. Board members Tammy Harold and Christopher Wright were absent.

New Mexico Military Institute is the nation’s only state-supported, nationally accredited, coeducational military boarding school. It is not a reform school.

“It’s an education institution using a military platform,” McClelland said.

Housing is a key part of the institute, McClelland said, because the leaders recognize that learning never stops when you control the environment.

While academics are a primary focus, responsibility, leadership and character development are part of the program, she said, adding that the education offered also benefits those not planning to pursue a military career.

“It creates an option for a new model for students we don’t currently have,” McClelland said.

The iConnect Zone encompasses the online and charter schools of District 49. A district-based military institute could operate like a charter school, McClelland said, although the concept is a long way from becoming a reality. She is researching the idea to determine the best approach for the district, she said. The board directed her to look into hiring a consultant as the project moves forward.

“It’s like a dream come true for me,” said board President Dave Martin. “I think the Colorado Springs community in general will jump on it.”

Officials at New Mexico Military Institute suggested visiting other military institutes, McClelland said. There are only about five such facilities in the country, and administration and community members should be part of the team, she added.

“It’s an attractive piece for the community,” said board Treasurer Andy Holloman.

Community is part of the equation, McClelland and board members said. It’s an added bonus that the Pikes Peak region has so many military connections.

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Contact the writer at 636-0162.